Orthopaedic surgeons are highly satisfied with their careers: results from a nationwide cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: High job satisfaction has positive outcomes for patients, health institutions and surgeons. There has been no work into job satisfaction primarily among Australian orthopaedic surgeons and its driving and deterrent factors. The aim of this study was to assess job satisfaction and associated factors among Australian orthopaedic surgeons.

Method: We conducted a nationwide survey using a 24-item questionnaire consisting of a self-developed item set of 14 questions and a 10-question modified version of Warr-Cook-Wall Job Satisfaction instrument to assess job satisfaction. The survey was emailed to 1393 orthopaedic surgeon members of the Australian Orthopaedic Association.

Results: 217 surgeons completed the survey. 88% of responders were either very satisfied or moderately satisfied with their jobs. 20% of responders were dissatisfied with their hours of work and a further 15% of responders were dissatisfied with the lack of recognition they get for good work. Surgeons with higher job satisfaction were less likely to feel that workload severely compromises their personal/family life (p<0.001), have better perceived self-health (p=0.04) and were less likely to have considered leaving orthopaedic surgery in the last year (p<0.001).

Discussion: Australian orthopaedic surgeons are highly satisfied with their jobs. There may be a role for active interventions aimed at improving hours of work and work-life balance.